Wednesday, September 30, 2009

A short review of "11:11" by Rodrigo Y Gabriela

Release Date: 09/07/09

Is there such a thing as Flamenco Metal? It might seem a bit of an oxymoron, but how else would you accurately describe what Rodrigo y Gabriela do? Sure, there are many influences in their unique fusion of genres, but somehow they always seem to work more than a little metal into what they do.

Listening to 11:11 I can't help but feel like they really perfected their recipe and have finally written amazing music that will make you bang your head and stomp your feet all the way through. It is remarkable how heavy the songs are, considering that all they use is little more than just two classical guitars.

All songs on this album are extremely well crafted and impeccably executed. But what sets them apart is that the music itself is really good. And this is not something always easy to find among virtuoso musicians, too often preoccupied with how the music looks good on paper. These guys know how to use their magic hands to create something that is technically beautiful and will melt your face at the same time.

The music of the 11th track, 11:11 (inspired by Pink Floyd), is a key to its cryptic title. The whole song is in 11/8 (with a feel of 1-2-3, 1-2-3, 1-2-3, 1-2). Even the piano notes at the end continue on the same signature. Interestingly this is the first piano I've heard them use. They make an interesting use of it to close the album.

11:11 has been released less than a month ago, and I can't put it down. All I want now is for Metallica to cover Hanuman and then I'll be in Flamenco Metal heaven!

No comments:

Post a Comment